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Another One Of Those Conversations With GP


I really feel for you not being able to walk comfortably. I'm aware there are a few people on this forum who struggle with walking or who can't walk at all. I'm horribly conscious of it whenever I'm whining about the fact I've started going on big walks at weekends and that's making it harder to manage T2. Anyway we've all got to just say things as we find them.

One thing's for sure, I may be a relatively simple case for my GP right now, but if I adopt the same level of complacency as he does, I'm likely to become much more interesting for him! I've already, for the first time in my life, started getting foot cramps this year. Never had them before in my life. They were one of the things I was asked about in my last foot checkup, so I'm taking them as a warning sign that I really need to get on top of things.
 
AdamJames said:
They were one of the things I was asked about in my last foot checkup, so I'm taking them as a warning sign that I really need to get on top of things.
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When you asked about the cramps, what were you told?

Cramps can be a sign of certain mineral deficiencies such as potassium, magnesium and salt. Potassium and salt (sodium) levels are normally included in your blood tests in the renal functions. Magnesium is difficult to assess with blood tests, but you could check out if you eat enough of the foods that contain magnesium.
 
Complex? Short story, last appointment with physiotherapist (new physio and quite dishy so I was in a good mood, eye candy dontcha know!). Started by telling him exactly what I won't do and why I won't do it. Job's a goodun. Set the tone, make sure HCPs know that you've done your homework so that they are up to speed and do not have to start at the very basic (often patronising, depending on the particulat HCP) level.
 

It was the foot nurse (is that the right term?) who asked me if I'd ever had foot cramps. That was a few months ago and I was able to say no, I've never had them. I've had 3 very painful bouts since!

I'd got the impression it might be a circulation thing. But now that you mention it it may well be a nutrition thing. I used to regularly take supplements last year but I've got out of the habit. Also I'm pretty sure I've been having much less avocado because of the price, and less almonds because I got a bit sick of them. Thanks for the insight.
 
Guzzler said:
(new physio and quite dishy so I was in a good mood, eye candy dontcha know!).
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Haha! Every cloud, as they say. I suspect my GP is a very good-looking man but unfortunately it's wasted on me. It's a pity, that could have been the one thing I get out of the visits.
 
Or just low potassium from low carb dieting? Do you supplement?
My GP doesn't nurse my requirements but if I ask he will check my blood test results and rely their understanding.
I have to do everything except prescribe myself drugs and manage any blood result failings or refer me to a specialist if not a self referral option. Diagnosis of diabetes and anything related is by my endo specialist who prescribes my insulin but paid for by gp practice.
Last week I restarted metformin after getting my ibs in better control so far cheaper for gp as more insulin must have been crippling. Not great for my weight loss either.
I know GPs have their own private lives and do vary hugely in intellect and enthusiasm.
I guess like us all, at work.
 
AdamJames said:
Also I'm pretty sure I've been having much less avocado because of the price, and less almonds because I got a bit sick of them. Thanks for the insight.
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The great thing about almonds is that you can run them through a coffee grinder and add them to almost any food without noticing them. Smoothies, stir fry etc. Also nice when sliced and sprinkled on top of food.
 
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